FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact
Vashon Lamont Hill, Chief of Marketing and Communications
Email: vhill@plainfield.k12.nj.us
Phone Number: (908) 731-4442 (Office) or (908) 591-1402 (Mobile)
Plainfield Scholars Earn Head Start on College with Over 30 Credits Before Graduation
PLAINFIELD, NJ – June 2, 2025 – On Tuesday, June 24, at Hub Stine Sports Complex, five exceptional students from Plainfield Public Schools will graduate not only with their high school diplomas but with 30 college credits already under their belts — thanks to the district’s robust dual enrollment partnership with Kean University. These trailblazing students have taken full advantage of the academic opportunities available, demonstrating extraordinary commitment, focus, and a drive to succeed.
From Plainfield High School, Ariana Lara Sanchez, Jennifer Roads Guerra, and Wendy Vera have excelled in their college coursework while balancing the responsibilities of high school life. At the Plainfield Academy for the Arts and Advanced Studies (PAAAS), Yissel Angel Ramirez and Natalie Menjivar Portillo have also reached this incredible milestone, illustrating what’s possible when students are supported with high expectations and meaningful opportunities.
Graduating with over 30 college credits places these students well ahead of their peers across the state and nation. It means they will enter college with a full semester—or more—already completed, saving time and thousands of dollars in tuition. More importantly, it signifies that Plainfield students are college-ready, competitive, and prepared to thrive in higher education.
“This is what academic excellence looks like,” said Superintendent of Schools Rashon K. Hasan, Ed. S. “These students have embraced the opportunity to challenge themselves and have emerged stronger, smarter, and better prepared for what lies ahead." He continued, “It's a reflection of their hard work and our district’s commitment to building real college and career pathways for our scholars.”
The dual enrollment program at Kean University is part of a broader district initiative to increase post-secondary readiness and access to advanced academic experiences for all students. It empowers motivated learners to begin their collegiate career while still in high school, opening doors to new possibilities and accelerating their success.
Principal Gregory Sneed of PAAAS echoed this sentiment, saying, “Yissel and Natalie have proven that when students are given the tools and support to aim high, they will rise to the challenge. This accomplishment is the result of their ambition and the collaborative efforts of our staff, families, and college partners who believe in their potential.”
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For more information on the Plainfield Public School District or this story, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at information@plainfield.k12.nj.us or by phone at, (908) 731-4442.